This notice is issued to advise you that some previously accepted shop practices may not be keeping up with changing Federal and State Safety and Health Standards. Your current shop practices may not emphasize the need for proper precautions to insure safe operation and use of machines, tools, automatic loaders and allied equipment and/or warn against the use of certain solvents or other cleaning substances that are now considered unsafe or prohibited by law. Since many shop practices may not reflect current safety practice and procedures, particularly with regard to the safe operation of equipment, it is important that you review your practices to ensure compliance with Federal and State Safety and Health Standards.

The operation of any machine or power-operated device can be extremely hazardous unless proper safety precautions are strictly observed. Observe the following safety precautions:

Always be sure proper guarding is in place for all pinch, catch, shear, crush and nip points.

Always be sure that all personnel are clear of the equipment before starting it.

Always be sure the equipment is properly grounded.

Always turn the main electrical panel off and lock it out in accordance with published lockout/ tagout procedures prior to making adjustments, repairs, and maintenance.

Always wear appropriate protective equipment such as safety glasses, safety shoes, hearing protection and hard hats.

Always keep chemical and flammable material away from electrical or operating equipment.

Always maintain a safe work area that is free from slipping and tripping hazards.

Always be sure appropriate safety devices are used when providing maintenance and repairs to all equipment.

Never exceed the rated capacity of a machine or tool.

Never modify machinery in any way without prior written approval of the Besser Engineering Department.

Never operate equipment unless proper maintenance has been regularly performed.

Never operate any equipment if unusual or excessive noise or vibration occurs.

Never operate any equipment while any part of the body is in the proximity of potentially hazardous areas.

Never use any toxic flammable substance as a solvent cleaner.

Never allow the operation or repair of equipment by untrained personnel.

Never climb or stand on equipment when it is in operation. 

It is important that you review Federal and State Safety and Health Standards on a continual basis. All shop supervisors, maintenance personnel, machine operators, tool operators, and any other person involved in the setup, operation, maintenance, repair or adjustment of Besser-built equipment should read and understand this bulletin and Federal and State Safety and Health Standards on which this bulletin is based.